Origin: Latin suffix -tion
Depreciation has 4 different meanings across 1 category:
decrease in value of an asset due to obsolescence or use
"The company recorded a significant amount of depreciation on its factory machines as they wore out from daily operations."
a communication that belittles somebody or something
"The manager's constant depreciation of his team's efforts left them feeling undervalued and unmotivated."
The state of being depreciated; disparagement.
"The harsh criticism led to a public depreciation of his leadership abilities."
In plain English: Depreciation is when something loses value over time, so it's worth less money than before.
"The company's yearly report highlighted that asset depreciation reduced their overall profits this year."
Usage: Depreciation refers to the loss in value or quality of an asset over time, such as when a car's worth decreases with age and use. It is distinct from depreciation in accounting, which specifically tracks this financial decline for tax purposes rather than general criticism.
The word depreciation entered English from French dépréciation. It originally referred to the act of lowering or diminishing something's value.